§ 35. Mr. Iain Millsasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will make a statement on progress with the west midlands industrial initiatives.
§ Mr. ButcherMy right hon. Friend the Secretary of State has asked me to retain my special responsibility for the promotion of the Department of Trace and Industry's schemes of assistance for industry in the region. I shall continue to work closely with the local business community and the local authorities which have announced the formation of an industrial development association to promote the region overseas which will receive financial support from my Department. I shall continue to supervise the work of our west midlands team for innovation in promoting awareness and implementation of the assistance available to industry.